Officials say reported Iowa student beating not hate crime

IOWA CITY, Iowa — Authorities have determined an altercation earlier this month involving a black University of Iowa freshman does not meet the criteria for a hate crime.

Student Marcus Owens reported he was assaulted May 1 in an alley near several bars and restaurants by white men who called him racial slurs.

Authorities reviewed surveillance video and talked to witnesses, and police issued a statement Monday night detailing the evidence. It says Owens was involved in multiple confrontations at a bar and staff removed him from the area.

Witnesses reported one person used a racial slur, but police say the FBI determined the incident didn't "meet the criteria necessary" to be considered a hate crime.

The statement says no charges are anticipated.

Owens and his family said in a letter released by the department that his account was inconsistent partly due to alcohol being involved.